Braving elements pays big dividend
Dec 3 2010 The Journal
THE severe weather hit angler numbers at Northumbrian Water fisheries this week with the close season coming a few days earlier than expected with the reservoirs re-opening on March 12 and the new season on the upland wild brown trout waters starting on March 22.
Malcolm Brown from Middlesbrough, fishing a Goldhead Black Fritz on a 6lb breaking strain leader, had the catch of the week at Sharpley Springs with a 13lb 2oz Blue that took 10 minutes to land.
Despite rapidly dropping temperatures, quality trout were still taken on large buzzers, bloodworm and back lures. As the freeze took hold the trout fed deeper – but not right down - and static offerings were top of the menu with Cat's Whiskers fished under indicators proving their worth.
The work continues at South Linden, but due to wet weather and snow, it is taking longer than planned to complete and the fly lake may be closed a further two weeks.
The bait lake is open and well stocked for those wanting to brave the weather, but could be unfishable due to ice forming on the lake.
Those wanting to fish should phone ahead on 01670 788 366 or visit the fishery's website at www.southlindenfishery.org to check the conditions.
The onslaught of snow and bitter north winds put paid to the angling action at Witton Castle Lakes towards the end of the week.
However, the start of the week fished well, with Stockton angler Geoff Robertson managing nine fish, the best being around the 8lb mark, on a variety of lures and an intermediate line.
Bishop Auckland's Tim Watson, fishing a Wicked White under a bung, took the best fish this week with a splendid rainbow of 11lb 6oz.
Lure fishing continues to produce the best of the sport at the moment, with Zonker, Dawson's Olive and Humongous patterns doing the business while deep, slowly-fished buzzers have also produced good catches during the calmer times in the day.
Anglers planning a trip to Witton Castle should call 01388 488 691 to check conditions before setting off.
The snow also hit the fishing at Jubilee Lakes. Although the lakes have been OK, the problem has been the state of the roads leading to the fishery. Again any angler planning to visit Jubilee should call 01388 772 611 to check conditions.
Chatton Trout Fishery has been closed this week due to the weather with this Sunday's Winter League Competition heat cancelled. The fishery will contact those anglers involved to re-schedule.
It is hoped the fishery will re-open next week but anglers are advised to check the fishery's website on www.chattontroutfishery.com or call 01668 215 226 to check conditions before setting off.
Fly box
Sharpley: Large Black Buzzer, Bloodworm, Black Fritz, Cat's Whisker, Goldhead Hare's Ear.
